How Quickly Do You Lose Running Fitness?

by Jason Fitzgerald for Active.com

Any runner with big goals—whether it's finishing a first 5K or qualifying for the Boston Marathon—can get worried at the prospect of taking time off from running.

But sometimes it's inevitable: You get the flu, have a really busy week at work, take a vacation with the family, or experience a running injury. No matter the reason for taking some time away from running, the best thing you can do is get back to your normal training volume as quickly and safely as possible.

Even though that's usually the best intention, it doesn't always happen. So how soon do you actually lose the fitness you've worked so hard to gain when you take time off? more